Grammy Nominee Janelle Monae Honored By Essence

Even if Janelle Monáe goes home empty-handed after Sunday’s Grammys, she’ll already have at least one award to take back home.

The critically acclaimed performer was lauded by Essence magazine on Wednesday night at the magazine’s second-annual “Black Women in Music” pre-Grammy event. Among those in attendance included Diddy, who is a backer of her label, and rapper Big Boi, who was an early supporter of Monáe and performed with her at the event.

Monáe lauded both for giving “a girl from Kansas” a shot.

Photo: AP Photo
Etam Fashion Show, Grand Palais, Paris, France

Monáe is nominated for best contemporary R&B album for her debut CD, The ArchAndroid and best urban/alternative performance for “Tightrope” with Big Boi.